Cultural Communication in the Centong War Tradition Wedding Procession of the Brebes Population

Abstract

Culture is the identity of every human group. The form of culture of each community group is reflected in cultural traditions, especially in the rituals of wedding processions in Brebes Regency such as the Centong War Tradition. The tradition of the Centong War in the wedding procession is understood as a form of cultural communication that is conveyed verbally and nonverbally. This tradition has meanings and symbols as a representation of spiritual and socio-cultural values. This tradition is also understood as a form of symbolic interaction that contains symbols, actions, and the process of forming meaning. The purpose of this study is to understand in depth how the meaning and symbols of the Centong War tradition are used in the context of ritual communication during the wedding procession in Brebes Regency. This research uses a qualitative method with a structural approach. This research uses the theory of cultural communication. Primary data in this study is the answers or responses from respondents collected through the interview and observation process, Secondary data in this study is obtained from documentation in the form of journals, books, notes, documents and other sources. The results of the study show that the Centong War has undergone several adaptations, but its basic values are still maintained. This proves that local culture is dynamic and able to survive in the midst of changing times, as long as the community still feels that they own and understand the meaning of the symbols they inherit.